Darlington Road, Barnard Castle, County Durham

Marden House is an outstanding detached period home dating back to 1909, located on the edge of the sought-after town of Barnard Castle, with views across the magnificent rolling countryside. The property has been in the same family for almost 100 years and features handsome elevations of stone and render, with its castle-like part-crenelated roof and splendid arched entrance creating a sense of grandeur and historic charm. Inside, there are various attractive period features including exposed timber beams, Lincrusta panels and large windows welcoming plenty of natural light and afford those far-reaching countryside views.

The main entrance opens into the handsome dining hall with timber beams overhead and a wood surround fireplace with multi-fuel log burner. This impressive reception room is ideal for formal occasions and entertaining, while the fabulous dual aspect kitchen, the heart of the home offers underfloor heating and a dining area which provides a more relaxed, informal everyday living and dining space. The kitchen/dining area, fitted with classic units to base and wall level features a central island with granite work surface with seating, a range cooker and integrated dishwasher as well as space for an American-style fridge/freezer. The ground floor also has a comfortable sitting room in which to relax, with a feature Robert Aagaard fireplace and a large south-facing bay window, with the conservatory-style garden room providing a splendid link between the living space and the gardens. Additionally, towards the rear of the ground floor there is a utility room with space for further appliances, plus a boot room, cloakroom and a store.

Upstairs, the spacious landing area with original seating can be used as an additional reception room, and leads to four well-presented double bedrooms. These include the generous principal bedroom with its extensive built-in storage and en suite shower room, with underfloor heating. The first floor also has a large family bathroom with a bathtub and a wet-room style walk-in shower.

Services: Mains gas, electricity, water and drainage
Council Tax: Band G
EPC Rating: E

The house is oriented to the south, with the main entrance facing away from the road and much of the accommodation taking advantage of the stunning and far-reaching countryside views. The driveway leads from the road to a detached garage directly on the left, and to a parking area in front and to the side of the house, with space for several vehicles. There is a useful store and coalshed. The walled gardens at the rear feature an area of lawn with borders of various flowering perennials, hedgerows and mature trees, while the south-facing gardens at the front provide feature well-stocked, colourful border and central beds, a well-maintained lawn and various established border shrubs and hedgerows. Beyond the stone wall border, open countryside extends for miles and affords beautiful views from both the house and gardens.

The property lies in a sought-after position on the edge of the popular town of Barnard Castle. Set on the banks of the River Tees, the charming and historic town is known for its medieval castle and offers various everyday amenities, including high street shops, restaurants, cafés and a supermarket, as well as a leisure centre and golf club.

The larger towns of Darlington and Bishop Auckland are both within 15 miles, providing access to further shops, supermarkets and leisure facilities. Barnard Castle offers a choice of schooling, including the outstanding-rated secondary, Teesdale School and Sixth Form, and the independent Barnard Castle School.

The A1(M) is approximately 15 miles away, providing access towards Newcastle, the Scottish borders and south towards York and Leeds. Darlington’s mainline railway station provides regular services towards London Kings Cross, from 2 hrs 20 minutes.